Ras Al Khaimah In Hollywood Movie

The emirate pledges to remain in UAE and champion local talent

Look closely at the trailer for the movie War Machine, starring Brad Pitt, and you’ll notice a familiar landscape. Those rocky highlands that form Afghanistan’s rugged terrain? None other than Ras Al Khaimah’s own stunning Hajar Mountains. That American military basecamp in a run-down Pakistani town? RAK’s own historic village.

The Netflix Original movie, which premieres on the streaming site worldwide on 26th May, is a military satire starring a number of Hollywood A-listers, including Brad Pitt, Tilda Swinton, Topher Grace and Ben Kingsley. Set in Afghanistan, the story is loosely based on a real US general’s attempt to bring the war to an end in 2012, and has been getting strong reviews from critics.

As well as shooting in Abu Dhabi, War Machine filmed in several locations around Ras Al Khaimah in the latter half of 2015. Jazirat Al Hamra was turned into a Pakistani village and a military basecamp, with signs placed around the village in Urdu for the shoot. The village has lain abandoned since the 1960s, before the rapid modern development of the UAE, and the atmospheric area was also used as a filming location for the horror movie Djinn. Work to restore the old buildings – which include traditional homes and a mosque – is currently underway, as part of a project to preserve RAK’s rich cultural heritage.

Pitt’s then-wife Angelina Jolie joined him in Ras Al Khaimah during the filming of the movie, which also saw more than 2,000 UAE-based extras recruited to play members of NATO armed forces and Afghans. But despite the attention that Ras Al Khaimah has received since the Hollywood circus came to town, the emirate is staying true to its roots, stating: ‘with ancient heritage, perennial sunshine, golden beaches, rugged mountains, terracotta desert, luxury accommodation and plenty more to offer visitors, I’m not going anywhere – and Hollywood knows where to find me!’

Watch War Machine on Netflix (Netflix.com) from 26th May

Inspire Me

Disappear in the rugged mountains and wadis of southern Ras Al Khaimah for your second day. Pack your 4WDs and pick one of our recommended routes towards Masafi and experience a life far removed from the glitz and glamour of the cities.

Look closely at the trailer for the movie War Machine, starring Brad Pitt, and you’ll notice a familiar landscape. Those rocky highlands that form Afghanistan’s rugged terrain? None other than Ras Al Khaimah’s own stunning Hajar Mountains.